New construction on Sanibel?? Yes, those aren’t words you hear used together often. As you know, Sanibel is nearly 90% built out in terms of residential land. And due to the building regulations established by our founding fathers, we don’t see too many “complete tear-down” projects on island either.
With that said, however, I recently had the pleasure of listing two newly constructed homes that were built within the last 3 years. Gorgeous is an understatement for both of these homes! They were constructed with a contemporary layout perfect for island living and decorated with a coastal designers touch.
It’s no surprise that both of the newly listed properties received immediate interest of potential home buyers, and are both already under contract!
What made them so desirable??
Well, other than the location of the properties and the fact that they were recently constructed, there are a few prominent features that made the homes “fly off the shelves,” so to speak.
#1. Outdoor Living Space
This is Florida! We have wonderful “open window” weather for at least eight months of the year. So, of course, having an indoor/outdoor living space is highly desirable for Sanibel homes.
Both of these newly constructed homes have sliding glass doors just off of the main living area that pocket away behind the exterior wall, leaving a seamless indoor/outdoor space for entertaining. Just beyond the doors are beautiful balconies with lounge chairs for sitting and a table for dining. The balcony is enclosed within the pool cage that extends up to the home’s second floor, eliminating the need for screen doors leading inside.
#2. Squeaky Clean Kitchens
Nothing says “clean” like an all-white kitchen with bounds of natural sunlight. That’s another commonality between our two example homes. Actually, one kitchen had a light gray colored cabinetry, with a light granite counter-top, white subway tile backsplash and accented by beautiful white hand-blown glass light fixtures.
#3. Private Master Suites
Split floorpans are becoming more popular, where the master suite is on the opposite side of the home as the guest rooms. This allows more privacy for families and visiting guests staying together under one roof. Both of these beautiful master suites spanned the entire width of the home, featuring ensuite bathrooms, walk-in closets and private doors leading to the enclosed balcony.
#4. Luxury Bathrooms
Up there with kitchens on the list of important home features, having updated bathrooms is a major plus for any home on the market. So, of course, both of these newly constructed homes had beautiful, modern-luxury bathrooms not only in the master suite but for each guest room as well. Unique granite counter-tops, tiled showers, and dual vanities are prominent selling features for most bathrooms.
#5. Sky-High Ceilings
Tall ceilings are still “in.” I’m sure that comes as no surprise. Both homes had at least 9-foot ceilings in the main living level. Interestingly, neither home had skylights but instead had tall windows letting in plenty of Sanibel’s natural sunlight. The tall ceilings help contribute to the open, airy ambiance of a home, making a grand statement as you enter the room.
Hats off to the owners of these two amazing properties for their incredible “eye-for-design” and incorporation of features that make island living so special. I hope you enjoyed the photos and features of these two newly constructed homes! If you have any questions about the designs or layout of these or any of our properties, feel free to reach out to me at susan@sanibelrealestateguide.com.
